But it was one of the senior pros who delivered the crucial goal, as Sean O'Connor stepped up on 35 minutes, the winger scoring with a free kick which was awarded after Barry McNamee fouled Kieran Marty Watters.

And Derry's lengthy injury list grew even longer as key defender Ryan McBride was substituted at half time, the injury situation now a real concern for under-fire Derry boss Hutton.

Their place in the last four now secure, Rovers move on to their next big test, away to Cork City in the league next Friday, a key game for both clubs as they bid to keep pace with league leaders Dundalk.

The Lilywhites had earned a place in the semi-final draw of the EA Sports Cup with a comfortable win over UCC on Monday.